Singapore Autonomous Vehicles
Singapore presents a significant opportunity for U.S. companies to enter a rapidly expanding autonomous vehicle (AV) market with clear regulations, strong funding, and immediate commercial potential. Singapore’s AV market is advancing rapidly, driven by strong government support and alignment with the city-state’s goals strengthen its extensive public transportation network and improve urban mobility. Backed by a business-friendly environment, a strong record of adopting innovative technologies, and significant R&D investment, Singapore is positioning itself as a regional leader in Asia’s AV industry.
Since 2015, Singapore has facilitated on-road AV trials at controlled sites. In January 2025, the government launched a tender for smaller autonomous public buses, with operations scheduled to start in mid-2026. The $6.2 million (S$8.1 million) contract covers six 16-seater electric buses, AV software and hardware, and related associated systems. In September 2025, Singapore introduced its first self-driving shuttle service in the Punggol residential area, which is expected to open to the public by Q2 of 2026. AV trials in Singapore include logistic vehicles, robo-sweepers, campus bus services, transport for airport workers, and autonomous tractors for aircraft luggage handling.
The government aims to have 100-150 self-driving vehicles by 2026, with plans to expand deployment island-wide over the next five years to strengthen last-mile connectivity, reduce commute times, address manpower constraints from the bus-driver shortage, and enhance the public transport network. With continued investments in AVs and urban mobility solutions, Singapore offers significant opportunities for international collaborations.
U.S. companies seeking to expand in Asia will find Singapore a conducive environment to pilot, scale, and commercialize mobility solutions. U.S. companies may also explore opportunities through platforms such as the Singapore Urban Mobility Week and InnoTrans Asia, which highlight advancements in AVs, smart infrastructure, transport technology, and urban mobility.
For more information, please contact Mishell Arwan, Commercial Assistant.